The Walter G. Andrews Memorial Lecture Series honors the legacy of Walter G. Andrews (1939–2020), a beloved scholar, mentor, and foundational figure in Ottoman literature and culture nationally and internationally at the University of Washington. A founding member of the Department of Near Eastern Languages & Civilization (NELC), today Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures (MELC) for over five decades, Andrews was a pioneer in Ottoman literary studies, fostering deep connections between Turkish and global literary traditions. His warmth, generosity, and intellectual rigor continue to inspire students and colleagues alike.
Established in 2022 with support from the Turkish and Ottoman Studies Endowed Fund that relies on donations from Seattle communities, this annual lecture brings leading scholars of Ottoman and Turkish literature, history, and culture to the UW community, reflecting Andrews’ interdisciplinary spirit and dedication to bridging past and present.
Past Lectures
- 2025:
- 2024:
- 2023:
Support the Series
Contributions to the Turkish Studies Endowed Fund help sustain this tribute to Walter G. Andrews' enduring impact. To donate, contact MELC at melcuw@uw.edu or visit our Support Us site.